1. In 1899, the first state fair in South Dakota began in Huron. Since then, the fair has grown significantly and draws thousands of people each year.

2. In 1944, the infamous fire at the Black Hills Ordnance Depot in Igloo, South Dakota destroyed over 4 million pounds of ammunition and killed 2 soldiers. The cause of the fire was never determined.

3. On July 17, 1956, the United States Air Force began testing intercontinental ballistic missiles at the Ellsworth Air Force Base near Rapid City. Today, the base remains one of the largest employers in the state.

4. In 1979, a severe thunderstorm hit the town of Spencer, South Dakota, causing significant damage and killing six people. The storm was later classified as an F4 tornado.

5. In 1996, the Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota received a major donation of $10 million from a single donor. The memorial, which is still under construction, is a tribute to the Sioux warrior Crazy Horse and stands as one of the largest sculptures in the world.